Echolocation could give small robots the ability to find lost people

Six technological breakthroughs inspired by nature

Inhabitat

By Cat DiStasio

Biomimicry is an incredible field that seeks to unlock nature’s deepest, darkest secrets and then use them to solve human problems. Many of the scientific breakthroughs in biomimicry have far-reaching applications ranging from new medical technologies, to methods of space exploration, advancements in renewable energy and better, cleaner and stronger building materials. The approach investigates nature’s designs and seeks to replicate its processes to improve people’s lives in the most efficient way possible. Inspiration can come from the most unlikely places, including long-extinct dinosaurs, sticky-footed geckos, deep sea creatures and even the structure of the tiniest green leaf. Read on to learn just a few examples of how scientists are mimicking the amazing abilities of plants and animals.